Queenslanders have been told to wear face masks and observe other pandemic protocols when they vote this weekend.

With 77 local government elections going ahead on Saturday, the Queensland branch of the Australian Medical Association wants more action to limit public health risks.

“We are recommending that those who have face masks to wear them when they are at the polling stations,” AMAQ president Dr Dilip Dhupelia said.

He has called for separate fast-track lanes to be created to ensure older people spend the shortest possible time at polling booths.

The AMAQ also wants the government to waive fines for those who choose not to vote “for legitimate reasons to minimise the risk of spreading COVID-19”.

“It is critical that people who are sick do not attend polling booths. If you are unwell or in isolation, it's important to stay at home for the full duration of the 14-day quarantine period, even if you have tested negative for COVID-19,” Dr Dhupelia said.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk says it is safe for the elections to proceed if people stay at least 1.5 metres away from others.

The Queensland Electoral Commission has told voters to bring their own pens, and says measures will be taken to prevent more than 100 people being inside polling centres at a time.

Hand sanitiser will be provided where available, and booths will undergo additional cleaning.